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Arsenal confident of landing Jorrel Hato despite Chelsea and Liverpool interest

Arsenal are pushing forward in their pursuit of Ajax wonderkid Jorrel Hato, with growing confidence that their long-term tracking of the player will pay off this summer. Despite serious competition from Chelsea and lingering interest from Liverpool, the Gunners believe their groundwork and vision under Mikel Arteta could give them the edge.

Arsenal’s long-term plan for Hato

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The 19-year-old has already amassed over 100 senior appearances for Ajax — a remarkable feat for someone his age. Arsenal have reportedly tracked Hato since he was just 14, and that long-standing interest now seems to be turning into something concrete.

As reported by Graeme Bailey via TBR Football, Arsenal view Hato as the perfect long-term solution on the left side of defence. The club is already preparing to make room in the squad, with Oleksandr Zinchenko expected to leave and Jakub Kiwior also likely to move on.

“Arsenal would be annoyed if they didn’t get Hato considering how much work they’ve been putting in. They want to sell Zinchenko to make room for Hato.”

The Dutch defender’s versatility is a major asset — capable of playing both as a centre-back and a left-back, he fits perfectly into Arteta’s fluid defensive system.

Chelsea and Liverpool in the race

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While Arsenal are leading the race, they aren’t without challengers. Chelsea have ramped up their pursuit of Hato, viewing him as an ideal addition to their strategy of acquiring high-upside young talent. The Blues are pushing hard, but Arsenal remain unfazed due to their head start and clearer pathway to the first team for Hato.

Liverpool are also monitoring the situation, although they haven’t yet made a move. The Reds admire the player’s potential, but are not actively negotiating at this stage.

What Hato offers Arsenal

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Age: 19

Position: Centre-back / Left-back

Footedness: Left

2024/25 Stats: Over 100 senior appearances, growing leadership in Ajax backline

Contract: Runs until 2028

With Arteta looking to future-proof his squad and continue building a young core around players like William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Declan Rice, Hato could be the next elite-level defensive talent to walk through the Emirates doors.